Mineral Oil\Paraffinum Liquidum\Huile Minerale
Mineral Oil\Paraffinum Liquidum\Huile Minerale
Highly refined petroleum-derived hydrocarbon mixture used primarily as an emollient, occlusive, and skin-protective base. In cosmetics it reduces transepidermal water loss by forming a barrier on the skin surface, helping soften, smooth, and protect very dry or compromised skin. It is chemically inert, odorless to nearly odorless, and non-reactive in most formulations. Because it is a mixture rather than a single defined molecule, it has no fixed molecular weight.
Benefits
Chemical Properties
Skin Type Compatibility
Interactions
Risks & Warnings
Generally very well tolerated when highly refined cosmetic/pharmaceutical grades are used. Main concerns are product heaviness, potential aesthetic greasiness, and rare follicular occlusion in very acne-prone users despite a low comedogenic profile. Low-quality or insufficiently refined mineral oils may contain undesirable hydrocarbon impurities, so cosmetic-grade refined material is preferred. Avoid aspiration if used as an oral laxative; that does not apply to normal cosmetic use.
